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COMMENTARIES

  • Hold the Rope

    Years ago, I heard a quote that has stayed with me throughout my career. I can't remember the author's name, but I'm sure his words have been in numerous inspirational speeches. The piece is titled, "Hold the Rope.""Hold the rope. On every team no matter what sport, game, occupation or gathering

  • What does resiliency mean to you?

    How the tough keep going when the going gets tough is a question that's been on my mind over the past couple of weeks. So, how do people remain calm and cope under pressure when they're on the verge of a meltdown due to a relentless workload and impossible deadlines?The word that comes to my mind is

  • Through a survivor's eyes

    Why don't you like sleepovers anymore?" asked a curious girl in my pre-teen dance class.This was a question I was asked frequently, so I gave the response most people wanted to hear, that I don't like being away from home.When I was 16, I offended people when I quickly jerked away and almost bolted

  • To be a better Airman, be a brave lobster

    While on the Internet last week, I came across two videos I think illustrate important lessons for every Airman. The first video was of a speech by Dr. Ken Robinson. Robinson, an educator and author, told this great story about his son's school nativity. Most of us are familiar with the nativity and

  • Reversing roles: military spouse to military member

    "It's only two months, I'll be fine. It's such a short time, no need to cry," I kept telling myself over and over again.I put on a brave face and kept my emotions in check as I gave my fiancé, Landon, one last hug and kiss before he went through airport security to fly out to Air Force basic

  • Finding strength, resiliency through Air Force family

    I joined the military to provide for my family, but I never would have expected the challenges my family would face and how we would evolve.When I enlisted in the Air Force I joined another family without intent. This family has been with me ever since, especially during my family's darkest

  • Staying safe, remaining vigilant

    If you've been watching the news lately, you've undoubtedly seen the tragic results of terrorism in Paris and other parts of the world; and you may have even heard about threats in the U.S.Should all of this concern us? Sure, to an extent. While running around scared there's a terrorist hiding

  • WWII WestPoint grad's perspective on terrorism, ISIL

    With the last surviving members of World War II averaging in their mid-nineties, I often wonder what thoughts these heroes may have about the evolution of war since the 1940s and the rise in terrorism.In the 70 years since WWII, America has fought in multiple wars and operations. It's safe to say

  • Exercise Ultimate Reach up close

    I have been part of the Air Force for five years, and I've seen numerous C-17 Globemaster III's in the air or heard them while spending time with my family. However, I never really thought about where the plane was heading or what was inside.After experiencing exercise Ultimate Reach 16-1 and

  • A view of the world

    Prior to entering U.S. Air Force basic training in July 1985, my view of the world consisted of my hometown family, friends and the local environment.  Since I came from a rural community, my view of the world was very small.  This is understandable since I was surrounded by people who had the same